Middle Grade Monday: School Dance

* Book 3 in the Brinkley Yearbook series * 

The Snowball Soiree is fast approaching and Milo is nervous. Whenever he dances, something bad happens. While he wants to go, he doesn't think that he should. His father is a great dance and tries to help. Taking dance lessons might work - but the only person who can take him is his grandmother who's not supposed to drive without one of his parents. Keeping secrets is making him more stressed. Can he relax and find his rhythm?

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book - there's a lot of drama and friendship. There's even a little romance. I loved the group of friends. I loved Milo's grandmother and her desire for freedom, even though it's hard. She made me miss my grandmother! I loved their relationship. I loved how everything turned out. I hope there are many more books in this series.

Cover Thoughts: Adorable

Source: My Library

 Library Recommendation: A must have series for your school or public library. 

Graphic Novel Review: Tryouts

The middle school baseball team is going for a decade of winning the championship. Al's been playing baseball for years, she's not sure that she'll be allowed to tryout for the team. But baseball is her life, and she's determined to try.

She doesn't have to fight to join the team. The coach is more than happy to give her a shot. It seems like everything is working out - until the team gets their first win. The local news channel wants to interview her. Even though Al talks about the team, that part is cut. The interview makes it seem like Al is responsible for the win. The rest of the team isn't thrilled about this. 

They keep losing and moral is at an all-time low. Even though this is a rebuilding year, they still want to win.

My Thoughts: This is the second book in the yearbook series. I love how this one centered around sports. Al was great - strong, determined, and talented. The team didn't gel, but they did have some good moments. I loved the side stories: the art club, the mascot, and the girls' basketball team. I love how the coach didn't need to be convinced to let a girl try out for the team. I admired that. I'll be honest, that wasn't where I thought the story was going. Lots of strong friendship moments in this graphic novel series. Looking forward to the next book in this series. 

Cover Thoughts: Strong

Source: My Library

Library Recommendation: A great graphic novel series for your school and public library collection